Formation is the process by which a seminarian becomes an Oblate of the Virgin Mary. Prayer, work, study, and recreation each play a part in this journey of spiritual, emotional, and intellectual maturation. The three stages of formation are postulancy, novitiate and theologate.

Postulancy

The first stage of formation, lasting about two years for those who enter with a college degree, provides the postulant with studies in philosophy, the humanities and liberal arts. These studies serve as a foundation for later work in theology. Combined with a life of prayer, especially the Mass and Eucharistic Adoration, the postulant undergoes his initial preparation for more advanced studies. Personal spiritual direction, monthly days of recollection, bi-annual retreats and some supervised apostolic experience also contribute to formation. Group outings and regular periods of recreation round out the schedule.

Novitiate

The second stage of formation is a one-year period of intense spiritual maturation and discernment. All academic studies are suspended during this twelve-month period. Instead, the novice is instructed in the rule, spirit, and way of life of the Oblates. He is also taught the fundamentals of the spiritual life and makes the thirty-day retreat of St. Ignatius of Loyola. The novitiate year concludes with religious profession as the novice takes temporary vows chastity, poverty and obedience and receives the Oblate religious habit.

Theologate

The third stage of formation has the newly professed embarking upon theological studies. The four-year program includes classes in scripture, spirituality, preaching, psychology and pastoral counseling. Supervised field education experiences have the student teaching at parish schools, doing retreat ministry and visiting the sick and dying. Summer apostolates give the student valuable experiences in living and working with Oblates here and around the world. Theological studies culminate in the reception of the Master of Divinity and Master of Arts in Theology degrees. The Oblate receives the ministries of lectorate and acolyte in preparation for final vows and ordination to the diaconate and priesthood.

Post-ordination Training

At the end of his required theological courses, the Oblate of the Virgin Mary may be given the opportunity to take a two-year specialization course in his chosen field, preferably at one of the Pontifical Universities in Rome. Most Oblates complete their specialization after some apostolic and priestly experience.